First off, I don't like calling these two-game escapades a "series." It's like calling a one-night stand a "relationship."

But all the talk is going to be about Rich Hill's return to Oakland (67-46 on the year, five games better than the Dodgers' 62-51 record), given it was the last team on which Hill pitched (in 2016), and he hasn't faced them since. But what about our opposing starter, and why isn't he getting more press? So Manaea vowels in his name! Why isn't that getting more press?

Manaea is no slouch, having pitched a no-hitter against eh Red Sox on April 21 of this year, when Boston had a winning percentage of .894, making them the best team to ever be no-hit. Strangely, Manaea's feat only had him share the AL Player of the Week award...along with Manny Machado (11-for-22 with five HR, two doubles, eight RBI, seven runs scored). I'd be happy if Machado could erupt like that again in Oakland tonight.

Dodgers start the day a half-game back of first place Arizona, who is also two games in front of the Rockies.